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saint nicholas

Over the course of this series, we have observed how the themes of generosity and goodwill displayed by a man living in 3rd century Asia Minor have progressed through the centuries via the oral traditions of story telling and legend. The generous acts made by this one individual would eventually in turn be elevated to reflect the deeds of a venerated Saint.

Astoundingly, the final factor which transforms a Turkish bishop named Nicholas from a saint to the timeless icon of holiday cheer known today as Santa Claus is the archetype-like astrological symbolism associated with his good deeds and generous nature.

Unlike the traditional development of those placed under the category of “Savior” where their time on earth begins in a state of humble poverty, Nicholas’ beginning is a proper reflection befitting a son of Jupiter by being born into a family of extreme wealth. This inherited wealth would be the main source behind the bishop’s benevolent reputation by Nicholas having the capability to bestow financial blessings on those around him and usually in their hour of desperate need. Along with his traditional depiction of red bishop’s robes and snow white hair, the predominant imagery associated with the saint is of him holding small satchels of gold. Even with that said, whenever the saint spread his wealth to help others, he did so with anonymity and usually in as furtive a manner possible, such as during the wee hours of night.

As stated in Part I, the time of year associated mainly with both Christmas and Santa Claus falls within the Zodiacal period allotted to the sign of Sagittarius, whose planetary ruler is the Head Honcho of all heavenly bodies that orbit around our Sun, mighty Jupiter. Astrologically, the largest planet of our Solar System is also known as “The Great Benefic” due to Jupiter literally shielding Earth from a constant barrage of exploding asteroids and disintegrating comets on a regular basis with its massive magnetic belt.